News Details

Community Impact Study Released

Public comments extended through May 13

The Port of Long Beach today released a draft study that will be used to shape future grant funding addressing the cumulative environmental impacts of Port operations on neighboring communities.

Since 2009, the Port’s Community Mitigation Grant Program has awarded $17.4 million for projects that lessen port impacts on community air quality. Projects funded have included air-filtration systems, renewable energy and energy efficiency upgrades at schools and senior centers, and educational outreach health programs.

The funding from existing sources is complete. To quantify the need for more grant funding, the Harbor Commission directed staff to conduct a state-required Community Impact Study to identify the Port's cumulative impacts, including on air, traffic, noise and water.

“We want to explore exciting new ways to continue this very successful program that has had a real, meaningful and lasting impact on lives,” said Harbor Commission President Lori Ann Guzmán. “Our mitigation grants have clearly helped those communities most vulnerable to air pollution.”

The public is welcome to comment on the draft impact study through 6 p.m. Friday, May 13, 2016 (the comment period has been extended). The Board of Harbor Commissioners will discuss a proposed framework and future guidelines for a Community Investment Plan during a series of meetings in May and June, with a Board decision tentatively scheduled for the end of June.